Anal Sac Disorders in Dogs

Dogs have anal sacs on either side of the anus which fill with fluid produced by the anal glands. This fluid is assumed to be a scent marker useful for delineating territory. Anal sac disorders involve impaction of anal sac fluid, inflammation of the sac(s), and abscess of the sac(s), which can lead to anal gland rupture. Impaction is the most common disorder of the anal glands. Small breed dogs like Miniature Poodles, Toy Poodles, and Chihuahuas are more predisposed than other breeds.

Symptoms and Types

Scooting

Straining to defecate

Itching/Scratching

Tail chasing

Discharge from the anal glands

Licking and biting around the anus

Causes

Unknown

Possible predisposing factors:

Chronically soft feces

Recent bout of diarrhea

Excessive glandular secretions

Poor anal muscle tone

Retained secretions

Diagnosis

Your veterinarian will conduct a complete physical exam on your dog, into account the background history of symptoms and possible incidents that might have precipitated this condition. You will need to give a thorough history of your dog's health, onset of symptoms, and possible incidents that might have led to this condition. Your veterinarian will order a blood chemical profile, a complete blood count, an electrolyte panel and a urinalysis to rule out other causes of disease.

The sacs are considered enlarged if during the physical exam, the anal sacs are easily palpable. The normal clear or pale yellow-brown secretion will have turned to a thick, pasty brown fluid if the anal glands have been impacted. Abscessed anal sacs will have a red-brown exudate, and show signs of swelling and redness. The anal sacs may also be clearly ruptured. The anal sac exudate will be sent to a laboratory for culture and sensitivity testing.